Some airports in the U.S. offer uniquely spectacular views on approach or departure: Mount Hood at PDX, the Grand Tetons at JAC, the Hoover Dam at LAS and so on.

But it’s tough to beat coastal cities and their water views.

Anyone who’s flown into San Francisco International Airport knows that seeing the famed Golden Gate Bridge from the air is a jaw-dropper, as is an aerial view of South Beach as you descend into Miami.

Landmarks aren’t necessary, however. Just seeing the shifting blues of ocean water get closer as your plane zeroes in on a runway is enough to dazzle the senses.

Take, for example, Boston Logan. Its six runways are surrounded on three sides by Boston Harbor; thousands of people take ferries or water taxis to the airport each year.

Arriving aircraft are flying only a few dozen feet above the water in the moments just before landing or after takeoff. Casper Wood captured this Delta A220-100 on approach at Logan, and you can just how close it is to the harbor surface.

Not far away, passengers flying in or out of Newark Liberty International Airport not only get views of New York City, but of neighboring Newark Bay as well. In fact, the Elizabeth and Port Newark channels come right up to the New Jersey Turnpike, which runs along the airfield’s western edge.

Mohamed Mishmish took a look back at the sun rising over New York and Newark Bay from a recent flight out of Newark, where you can clearly see the shipping terminals lining the port channels.

Thanks, Casper and Mohamed!

Our readers continue to pass along shots of unique aircraft, international airports, historical events, gorgeous views and even family vacation photos for this feature. We love them! Keep them coming—you can click here for submission guidelines.

A United Airlines flight departs from Newark Liberty International Airport with a view of Newark Bay and the New York City skyline. (Photo submitted by Mohamed Mimish)